Hanoi’s tourism sector is set to introduce distinctive travel experiences as part of its ambitious goal to welcome 31 million visitors, including approximately 7.5 million foreigners.

This year, the industry aims to achieve an 11.2% annual increase in tourist numbers, with total tourism revenue projected to reach 130 trillion VND (5.09 billion USD).

Dang Huong Giang, Director of the municipal Department of Tourism, announced that in March, the capital will unveil plans for launching new tourism products and experiences.

Under this initiative, Hanoi will introduce two cultural tourism routes connecting the southern and western areas of the city. A new community-based tourism destination will be established in My Duc district, alongside the development of agricultural and rural tourism models, as well as night tourism offerings.

Further expansion is set to focus on developing fresh products in high-potential areas, including adventure tourism, experiential travel, Red River tourism, helicopter tours, hot air balloon rides, and virtual reality tourism experiences.

Le Thanh Thao, chairwoman of the Hanoi association of travel agents, affirmed efforts to strengthen ties with key tourism markets such as China, the Republic of Korea, Japan, Europe, and the US. She highlighted the importance of developing Hanoi’s signature tourism offerings, including cultural tourism, sustainable tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), to create a unique identity and attract international visitors.

State-run units in the capital are also undergoing transformation by partnering with private firms to develop new products serving holiday markers. In a notable cultural initiative, the Hanoi cai luong (reformed opera) theatre has run a special programme at the century-old Chuong Vang Theatre since March, which treats visitors to meticulously staged performances featuring iconic excerpts from classical cai luong plays. Simultaneously, the “Cham” art space is taking place within the site, providing an immersive experience that introduces audiences to this genre of opera – an art form that remains relatively underrepresented in northern Vietnam.

Pham Ba Chinh, Director of the theatre, stated this programme is not just an entertainment event; it is an opportunity for visitors to explore and gain deeper insight into Vietnam’s history, culture, and spirit through the art of performance.”

Industry experts believe that it will offer unique attractions for both domestic and international tourists. The regular operation of the programme will also capitalise on the historical setting of the French-architecture theatre in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, while bringing traditional Vietnamese opera closer to the public./.